Martin Zubimendi expected to start for Arsenal amid Rice injury concerns

Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi is expected to start in Tuesday’s Carabao Cup fourth-round match against Fleetwood Town. Zubimendi, who sustained a facial injury during the recent Premier League victory over Everton, may be required to wear a protective mask if selected.

His potential inclusion comes as uncertainty grows regarding the fitness of Declan Rice. Rice was seen holding his right hamstring during the match against Everton and was substituted in the 80th minute. While it remains unclear if Rice has suffered a new injury, he has been managing ongoing lower-back and neural hamstring issues.

For Zubimendi, the midweek fixture offers an opportunity to gain match sharpness following a season marked by limited playing time and fitness struggles. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta faces a decision between utilizing the Spaniard to build consistency or adopting a cautious approach ahead of a Premier League match against Liverpool.